Boot Buyer's Guide

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Those who enjoy camping will find that the consensus among today's boot experts is to buy the best boots - along with the best socks - that fit your feet for a particular type of hiking/outdoor activity. Find footwear that fits your sole and your soul will be fit.

It also makes good sense to let product quality and design dictate your choice more than price. High-quality hiking boots and socks will no doubt cost more than those made to lesser standards, but over the long haul, better made and better designed footwear products will last longer while delivering better performance.

We have picked a few examples of what we think are those best suited for light- to medium-duty use, be that a day-hike, an overnighter, or a family vacation that involves combinations of both short and long treks, fair and foul weather.

HIKING HARDWEAR

Danner (800/345-0430; /danner.com/) ascends to a new level of hiking footwear with the 453 GTX ($160), featuring Terra Force X (TFX) technology and a Gore-Tex liner to keep feet dry and comfortable in whatever conditions the day brings. The advanced design of the TFX platform provides unrivaled stability, support and excellent heel-to-toe energy transfer, while at the same time supplying increased traction through the midsection of the boot. The 453 GTX (pictured) shines as a lightweight hiking boot both on and off the trail.

The Vasque (800/224-4453; /vasque.com/) Marga Mid ($90) is great for serious hikers. The Marga features split leather and fabric uppers with a compression-molded EVA midsole to provide a cushiony and comfortable fit. These hiking boots also use synthetic heel and toe caps to help resist abrasion, Vibram Skeleton Trek outsole for serious traction and Vasque's proprietary Keystone Control System to keep the foot securely in place on rough terrain. This shoe is designed for uncompromising trail performance.

Lowa (203/353-0116; /lowaboots.com/) offers several All Terrain Collection (ATC) boots with the Kerano GTX Mid ($200) leading the way. Hikers who prefer boots with Gore-Tex lining, a one-piece upper, and the Vibram Vialta outsole/midsole package will enjoy the nubuck-constructed Kerano. The midcut boot features Comfort Cuffs and Comfort Spoilers that provide softer, contoured padding to accommodate the back of the Achilles and ankle areas. You also have a choice of liners - Gore-Tex, or the Dri-Lex multizone comfort lining with Hydrofil nylon that wicks moisture and dries quickly.

Teva (800/433-2537; /teva.com/) offers the Philter ($85), part of the company's high-end Pro Series products. The non-marking Spider Rubber sole is one of the stickiest in the Teva line, providing excellent traction on all surfaces - wet or dry - with good durability. The shoe uses monofilament for mesh, webbing and laces. Water exits quickly and feet stay comfortable surrounded by the Drain-Tech sock liner. For added comfort and support, the Philter utilizes a dual-density midsole and Teva Adaptive Heel Fit Tech...

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